Cupisnique Feline Motif Ceramic Vessel

This Cupisnique ceramic vessel features a stirrup handle, typical of the style. The feline figure, possibly a jaguar, ocelot, or pampas cat, symbolizes power and religious significance in Cupisnique art, which predates the Chavín civilization. These vessels stored liquids like corn beer and were crafted using molds with hand-modeled details. The stirrup spout was hand-attached, and the feline’s spots likely held symbolic meaning, reflecting the culture’s complexity.